The Q5 competes in the crowded compact luxury crossover segment that includes the Acura RDX, BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class and Volvo XC60. It seats five and comes with standard Quattro all-wheel drive and a choice of a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a new supercharged 3.0-liter V-6. An all-new Q5 Hybrid is also available.
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A new 272-horsepower, supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 replaces the 3.2-liter V-6 offered previously; a turbocharged four-cylinder remains the base engine. Exterior design revisions include new headlights with available LED daytime running lights, a new grille and updated taillights. On the inside, the Multi Media Interface controls have updated finishes, and there are new chrome accents on the window controls. The newly available Audi Connect telematics system uses 3G cellphone technology to enable Google Maps satellite-image overlays, real-time gas prices, weather information, news and Wi-Fi service for up to eight devices.
A resemblance to the larger Audi Q7 is evident, but the Q5 also looks like a Volkswagen Tiguan dressed up for a night on the town, though the Q5 is larger than the compact VW crossover. Aluminum trim, fog lights and LED taillights are standard. Exterior features include:
- Standard 18-inch alloy wheels; available 19- or 20-inch wheels
- Heated side mirrors
- Roof rack
- Available adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
- Available power liftgate
- Available panoramic sunroof
The five-seat Q5 has the interior luxury for which Audi is revered. Heated and ventilated front seats are available. The Q5 is available with Audi’s Multi Media Interface, a multifunction controller. The optional hard-drive-based navigation system offers real-time traffic information. Interior features include:
- Leather upholstery
- Automatic climate control
- Split-folding, reclining backseat with fore/aft adjustment
- Available ash-wood inlays
- Available Bang & Olufsen premium stereo
- Available rear-seat entertainment system with dual 9-inch screens
- Available Bluetooth connectivity
Engine choices are a 211-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a new 272-hp, supercharged 3.0-liter V-6. The four-cylinder teams with an eight-speed automatic; the V-6 drives a six-speed automatic transmission. Mechanical features include:
- Engines use premium gas
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Quattro all-wheel drive
- Available adaptive suspension
Safety options include a blind spot warning system, rear-seat side-impact airbags and a backup camera. Standard safety features include:
- Front-seat side-impact airbags
- Side curtain airbags for both rows of seats
- Electronic stability system
- Antilock brakes
The 2013 model year marks the debut of Audi’s first hybrid: the Q5 Hybrid. It features a lithium-ion battery pack and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes a combined 245 hp. Scheduled to hit dealerships in fall 2012, the Q5 Hybrid comes with standard Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Back to top
